Tandwieltrein

Tandwieltrein, meaning "gear train" in Dutch, refers to a system of two or more gears that transmit rotational motion from one shaft to another. The teeth of each gear mesh with the teeth of the adjacent gear, causing them to rotate. This arrangement allows for changes in speed, torque, and direction of rotation.

The fundamental principle behind a gear train is the relationship between the number of teeth on each gear. When a smaller gear (pinion) drives a larger gear, the larger gear rotates slower but with increased torque. Conversely, when a larger gear drives a smaller gear, the smaller gear rotates faster but with reduced torque. This speed and torque modification is a primary function of gear trains.

Gear trains are essential components in a vast array of mechanical devices. They are found in automobiles to transmit power from the engine to the wheels, in clocks and watches to regulate timekeeping, and in industrial machinery for various power transmission needs. The specific configuration and number of gears in a train determine its overall mechanical advantage and its suitability for a particular application. Different types of gear trains exist, including simple gear trains, compound gear trains, and planetary gear trains, each offering unique advantages in terms of gear ratio and space efficiency.